Uncovering the Genetic Basis of Mouse Behaviour: A Look at Cross-Fostering
Cross-fostering reveals the genetic basis of mouse behavior
Have you ever wondered why some mice are more active than others? A new study has revealed that the genetic basis of mouse behavior is strongly influenced by their environment. Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have used a method called ‘cross-fostering’ to study the effect of different environments on the behavior of mice. The study found that mice fostered in a different environment than their own had significantly different activity levels and behaviors than their genetically identical siblings. This suggests that environmental factors play an important role in the development of mouse behavior, even when genetics are taken into account. This research has major implications for understanding the genetic basis of behavior in other animals, including humans.
source: Phys.org